International Travel Packing Tip : Pack for Japan like a Pro

Steal my international travel packing tips. This is EXACTLY what I bring on every single trip to Japan.

When traveling to Japan, whether it’s your first time or your 20th time, there are five small items that can make a big difference on your trip. I never leave them behind because they make my trip that much more effortless.

The best part is you probably already own all of these items! In case you don’t, we linked a couple of our go-to items that are easy to get ahead of time. 

Slip-on shoes & socks without holes

Japanese people always remove footwear when entering a new space. You’ll be taking your shoes on and off A LOT. You’ll want to make sure you’re presentable, so holes in socks are a no-go. This custom of removing footwear and such is a sign of respect. Fun fact, you’ll find entire stores dedicated to socks in Japan. So if you’re in need of a pair while on the go, finding one will be no problem! 

Small hand towel

Bathrooms rarely have paper towel dispensers. Most Japanese people always have a small hand towel with them specifically for this purpose. 

Souvenirs from your hometown/country

I do this on every trip I go on as it’s one of my Love Languages, but gift-giving goes a long way, especially in Japan. On my last trip, I brought chocolate-covered macadamia nuts from Hawaii, because who doesn’t love a sweet morsel?!

Cash & a coin purse

Japan is still largely a cash-based economy. Although there are many places that take credit cards, there are still many instances where cash comes in handy. For example: mom-and-pop shops, vending machines, temples, shrines, etc. It’s handy to have something that is convenient for holding coins since the yen coin denominations go up to 500 JPY (approx 4 USD). 

Reusable water bottle

Japan tap water is typically safe to drink so it’s easy to fill up just about anywhere. While there are vending machines and convenience stores everywhere, why not save on plastic waste and save some extra cash to spend on a couple of onigiri or a bento instead?

Bonus: What NOT to bring to Japan - an umbrella

If you’re worried about rain, don’t be. Umbrellas are extremely inexpensive and conveniently found throughout most cities. When you leave Japan, you can typically leave it behind at an establishment by asking. Someone will find it handy. 

Travel with us to Japan on our 11-Day Inside Japan Trip. Check out our itinerary and let us know if you’re interested in coming with us! We’ll be visiting tea farms, sushi classes, and walking tours of some of our favorite cities in the whole country.

If you’re traveling to Japan on your own and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service.  

This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, TTLT earns from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting our small business!

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - who offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

Written by Carly Dela Cruz, Operations Manager & Inside Japan Tour Host

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3 Can't Miss Activities for Your First Trip to Japan

No one can change my mind on this – if you want insider experiences, you need to be open to getting out of your comfort zone. But trust me when I tell you that once you get there, it’s where the real fun happens.

Each of the experiences listed below offers a unique inside perspective into the spirit of Japan. These might not be normal for your first time in Japan and might require a little more research and planning to make happen. But I say, be brave and incorporate a few into your trip! They will elevate your experience in a way that leaves you feeling empowered to keep stepping off the beaten path and appreciative of the inside perspective you experienced.

Our Inside Japan trip is full of these exact types of experiences - ones you wouldn’t find in a guidebook or in all of your Google searches. The Inside Japan trip is for travelers who want unique experiences without the mental gymnastics of planning a trip or navigating a new city and cultural norms on their own. If that sounds like you, contact us, and let’s chat about whether this trip fits into your travel plans.

If you’re planning a trip on your own, here are three activities I highly recommend you add to your itinerary. If these sound interesting to you, we’d be happy to help you create a customized itinerary with even more unique experiences.

Visit an onsen.

Japan is a volcanically active country which means there are thousands of hot springs, or onsen, scattered throughout the country, and because of this, Japan has a long history and developed a bathing and hot spring culture. There are entire villages and towns built around hot spring areas with lots to see and do. Namely, enjoying a relaxing soak in the baths. I recommend visiting an onsen because the customs and experiences surrounding them are ones you can only have in Japan.

There are public baths and onsen which you can visit for a day, or you can enjoy these amenities at your accommodations if they have them. Be aware that clothing is not allowed in the onsen. Most onsens are separated by gender, though a few mixed-gender baths do exist. There is etiquette and a set of rules to follow, but once you understand them, an onsen experience is one you can uniquely enjoy in Japan and will be the reason you return again and again.

A few easy-to-get-to onsen towns near Tokyo for first-time visitors include Atami, Kusatsu, and Hakone.

Pro tip: Find an onsen with a rotenburo, or outdoor bath, where you can have a relaxing soak while surrounded by nature and breathtaking landscapes. 

Eat with the locals.

You’ll find a variety of eating styles in Japan beyond your standard sit-down restaurant, including folks standing up and eating, eating at a long bar, or sitting down on mats around a table. One of the best ways to connect with local culture is to eat with them in a comfortable atmosphere.

One of my favorite things to do when I visit Japan is to visit a tiny Japanese bar by myself and enjoy food and drink with the locals. (It’s very normal to dine alone in Japan. If you’ve never done it before or are afraid to do so, this is the perfect country to give it a try!) Inevitably, I end up chatting with other convivial customers and the store owner serving food from behind the bar. Everyone is relaxed and it’s all about unwinding and having fun!

Pro tip: If you really want to try something different, I suggest you find a tachinomi, or standing bar, where, you guessed it, you stand while you eat. Expect a lively atmosphere and a little bit of chaos (for Japanese standards), but once you politely find a place to settle in, the real fun begins!

Stay at a ryokan.

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn, especially around hot spring villages. It’s more than just a place to sleep, but rather a place centered on embodying Japanese hospitality, or omotenashi. Omotenashi is a difficult concept to put into words but is sometimes translated as “wholeheartedly looking after guests.” I like to call it “mindful and humble hospitality”. Rather than tell you what it is, you’re better off experiencing omotenashi for yourself. You’ll find Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats, futon beds, Japanese-style baths, and local cuisine. When visiting a ryokan, it’s a bit like being treated like royalty no matter the establishment. That’s Japanese hospitality.

Staying at a ryokan might seem intimidating if it’s your first time with unfamiliar customs, etiquette, and procedures, but just follow along and you’re in for one of the most relaxing experiences of your life. From your arrival to the preparation of your room, while you enjoy your dinner, traditional dress, and meals, the Japanese ryokan experience anticipates details that display a strong sense of making sure guests feel considered and cared for. 

Pro tip: Onsen towns are filled with ryokan. Combine your stay at a ryokan with an onsen experience! If you’re hesitant about the communal onsen experience, there are often ryokans that include the option to book a room with a private bath.

Our Inside Japan trip is full of these exact types of experiences - ones you wouldn’t find in a guidebook or in all of your Google searches. The Inside Japan trip is for travelers who want unique experiences without the mental gymnastics of planning a trip or navigating a new city and cultural norms on their own. If that sounds like you, contact us, and let’s chat about whether this trip fits into your travel plans.

If you’re traveling to Japan on your own and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - who offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

Written by Carly Dela Cruz, Operations Manager & Inside Japan Tour Host

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15 Unspoken Rules When Visiting Japan

I wish someone had told me these 15 unspoken rules before my first trip to Japan. 

I learned each of these firsthand while living in Japan and visiting different regions over the past 10 years. By following these unwritten rules, I feel like less of a tourist and more of an explorer doing my best to show respect for the culture and social norms. When I travel, I set an intention to not only simply observe the everyday culture around me, but actually participate and embody the cultural nuances I experience. 

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, make sure to be familiar with these customs and social norms. If you have any questions, let us know!

1. Don’t eat and drink while walking.

Japanese people tend to enjoy their food, even street food and snacks, while sitting down or remaining stationary. You’ll find a lot of people parked outside a convenience store or street food vendor enjoying the item they just bought rather than unwrapping and eating on the go, or they wait until they reach their destination. Additionally, play it safe and avoid bringing open food or drink into a store or eating in front of other vendors’ stalls, especially if they’re not food vendors. It’s considered poor manners to do so and indicates you’re not appreciating your food fully or respecting the establishment you bring the food into. 

2. Being on time means being early.

Punctuality is a sign of respect. How seriously do Japanese people take punctuality? A major train company once made a public apology to the citizens of Tokyo for a single train departing 20 seconds early – I can’t imagine what would have happened if they were 20 seconds late. It’s safe to say that if you want to be sure you’re on time in Japan, arrive early. If you’re running late, it’s polite to let whomever you’re meeting know.

3. Escalators - they have a fast lane.

Watch out! Follow the crowds on escalators and look out for which side people are standing on and which side they leave open for people in a hurry to pass by. Whatever you do, DO NOT block the fast lane. In Tokyo, people stand on the left and leave the right side open. In Osaka, they stand on the right and leave the left side open. 

4. Avoid talking on the phone on public transit.

As another sign of respect and consideration to those around you, avoid talking on the phone on public transit or even talking too loudly to those around you. 

5. Don’t show up empty-handed. Gift-giving goes a long way in Japan.

Upon returning from your trip, it’s customary to bring omiyage, a gift or souvenir, to give to family, friends, coworkers, etc. It’s a way to show your appreciation for those you left behind. Likewise, if you know you’re going to be visiting people in Japan or meeting new people (tour guides, innkeepers, etc.) show them your appreciation and consideration for them by bringing something small from your home country. 

6. What is the little tray for?

You might wonder, “Why is there always a little tray at the cashier or when I want to pay the check?” That little tray is actually there for you to place your money. Rather than exchange the money from hand to hand, place it in the tray and they’ll return your change to you in the same manner. 

7. Taxi doors are automatic.

Don’t try to open and close your own taxi door. Taxi doors are automatic in Japan - just let the driver do his thing. It’s quite nice, actually.

8. Take your trash home with you.

Rarely will you find public trash cans in Japan. Japanese people typically take their trash home with them and sort it out in their own personal bins. Japan takes its trash sorting very seriously! Refer to your host, accommodation handbook, or hotel if you have questions about how to dispose of your trash. I fold up a tote bag in my purse that I can use to carry my trash.

9. It’s okay to take the free tissues handed out on the street!

You might find it shocking that a stranger wants to hand you a packet of tissues in the middle of the street. Companies in Japan do this for advertising and promotion as it’s a cheap and effective way to market. Japanese people tend to carry pocket tissues in their purses. I recommend taking them from time to time, you never know when you’ll need one. 

10. Learn the chopstick etiquette.

There are so many rules, but learning them will save you from 90% of the possible dining etiquette faux pas at a meal. 

11. Carry a hand towel.

Most restrooms in Japan do not offer disposable paper towels but sometimes there are air driers. Japanese citizens are taught from a young age to carry a handkerchief, tissues, or towels with them just in case. This is the hand towel I always bring.

12. Carry cash with you.

Despite being a technologically advanced society and the increasing number of establishments that accept major credit cards, many establishments in Japan are still cash-based, especially if it’s off the beaten path. You’ll also find vending machines everywhere and it’s nice to have smaller coins and bills on you. I always carry this small coin purse with me when I travel to Japan.

13. Just use the slippers.

When in doubt, if there’s a change of level or purpose of the room, there’s a good chance you will need to either take your shoes off and/or wear the slippers provided for you. Whatever you do, DO NOT step with your outside shoes on surfaces that are not meant to. There will often be a changing platform, too. Keep your shoes directly on the ground and step into them as you step off the changing platform. In other words, don’t put your shoes on the changing platform. Think of it as cross-contamination. These are some really easy slip-on shoes that everyone loves.

14. Musical chairs.

When queueing at restaurants with chairs outside, make sure you keep moving along so others can queue behind you. Don’t just keep sitting in the same seat the entire time you’re waiting, leaving a gaping hole in the row of chairs. Still, think of it as a queue, but you’re sitting down instead of standing.

15. Watch, then do.

Respect, politeness, and consideration for others run deep in Japanese culture. So much so, that people will follow the rules whether they are explicitly stated or unspoken. When in doubt, observe those around you to see what the majority of others are doing and follow along. Last but not least, Japanese people don’t expect foreigners to know everything and they will appreciate any honest effort to respect their culture.  If you want to learn more check out these two books for further reading: Etiquette Guide to Japan: Know the Rules that Make the Difference! or Japan - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

Join our Inside Japan trip and we’ll guide you through every interaction and local custom so you’re never left guessing.

On this trip to Japan, you’ll explore Japan like a local, ducking into small izakayas (casual pubs), soaking in hot springs, and speeding from one place to the next on the bullet train. This trip will take you inside the soul of Japan, visiting the local hotspots of Osaka, the cultural city of Kyoto, small towns in the countryside, and the bright lights and big-city buzz of Tokyo. Imagine yourself strolling the backstreets of Kyoto, enjoying the private performance of the mysterious maikos (Kyoto’s Geishas-in-training), and exploring the culinary variations of some of the best cuisines in the world - from the freshest seafood to perfectly crafted noodle dishes. Inquire to learn more!

If you’re traveling to Japan on your own and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - who offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

This page contains affiliate links. TTLT earns from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting our small business!

Written by Carly Dela Cruz, Operations Manager & Inside Japan Tour Host

Don’t forget to pin this article for future reference!

More Travel Resources